EPIC BOAT TRIP

Adventure. Respect. Ride.

If you are craving the adventure and experience of a lifetime, Epic Surf Tours is where you need to begin! I have had the pleasure of traveling, surfing and bodyboarding with Manny Vargas for over 20yrs. He is a world renowned waterman whose professionalism, punctuality, and vast knowledge will guarantee you a great experience. No matter your ability level in the water, or needs on land, Manny works to make sure you are safe and get the most out of your trip and the best waves! It is also very likely that you will make life long friends with others who come along. Go ahead and push the button on one of the trips and enjoy an Epic experience!

Adam Burton

Epic Boat Tour

I've had the pleasure to enjoy several epic trips with Manny. Baja Weekenders among them. I had a great time every time. Lots of laughs with old and new friends on the quest for waves and authentic food. I can't recommend these trips enough. Most recently however, my friend and I set out with Manny at first light to catch some waves right here in San Diego. The water of the bay was beautifully glassy, it was glowing pink and gold under the sky of the rising sun. Seeing the town we have lived and surfed in for so many years from the water's perspective during the boat ride was a bonus. A few new things to see and learn each way! Most importantly though, we learned about those breaks that are inaccessible via land and we caught many many fun waves. I was stoked - and back at work in the afternoon. One of the best 1/2 day staycations I can imagine. Maybe next time I'll pick an afternoon session :-) Manny is a professional all around waterman - former lifeguard, licensed captain, waverider,...I have always felt safe getting on board with Captain Manny. Highly recommended!!!

Eva T.

Epic Boat Trip

We are so happy we did this Epic Boat Trip! We all grew up in San Diego but we had never seen this side of it and we were stoked to check it out! Manny is the best boat captain you could hope for! Not only is he a surfer who embodies the aloha spirit but he's a knowledgeable local as well! It doesn't get any better than this! Whether you're brand new to the area or an old native like me, you're going to love seeing the surf from this new angle! We can't wait to do another trip with Manny!

Patti

Epic Boat Trip

Manny is awesome! Took the Epic Boat Trip to surf some San Diego reefs for 4 hours. Manny is a stand up guy; preps us for all the waves we'll encounter, provides lunch/drinks, even takes pictures! We even encountered a couple on a small boat that had engine troubles - Manny turned around and had no problem taking the time to help them out. Super stoked that he joined us for the last hour of waves too. Growing up in the late 90's and early 2000's primarily bodyboarding, I was pretty starstruck sharing waves with this legend. The trip was well worth the $99. Honestly I think he should be charging more, so get on it!

JP

Epic Boat Trip

This is the second trip I've taken with Manny at Epic Surf Tours. What I love about Manny's trips is that his main goal is to make sure you have an EPIC time. With surf, you can't guarantee perfect conditions or that perfect surf photo but with Manny, you can guarantee that you feel taken care of, have some laughs along the way and that overall it's an unforgettable and EPIC trip. Manny did a great job of boating us to uncrowded breaks but also making sure we understood the respect and privilege that comes with surfing these spots. I love that maintaining respect in surf culture was a priority but did not make the trip feel intimidating or restrictive. I would highly recommend this trip, and I'll definitely be going again, and again, and again!!!

Laura Day

Epic Boat Trip

Manny is the best. He's a knowledgeable, ripping surfer. He makes such a fun, safe and positive surfing experience at the place you just have to go to, there's nothing like it. His boat is awesome and oh, did I mention he's a great photographer? Super fun, go on the epic boat trip it will be . . . e

Kali`a

Epic Boat Trip

Epic Surf Tours was just that…..EPIC! Manny was amazing to spend the morning with…his love for sharing the water, his boat, his story, and his experiences with us is still bringing a smile to my face! Can’t wait to come again. Every review here is spot on. We are all so blessed to be able to share the love of the ocean and waves with someone as genuine and knowledgeable as Manny! Thank you again for such a wonderful experience. Baja next for sure!!!

Jacqueline

Epic Boat Trip

I went on an epic tour with Manny on 2/6/26, we had a great day. We were able to experience a couple of spots. We had a fun and beautiful day on the water. Will definitely be going on more Epic tours!!

Katie S.

Epic Boat Trip

What a great day out on the water! Manny and Tyler (the other boat captain) took excellent care of us throughout the morning. Fun boat ride out to the surf spot that you can only get to by boat. Hours of fun surf and great pictures too. It is always fun spending time with Manny-his energy and enthusiasm is infectious. During a time when travel to Mexico is out, a few hours on the boat and out on the water felt like a real get away. Highly recommend this epic outing.

Amy C

Epic Boat Trip-Amy's 30th again

I am a local to San Diego and in my 10+ years of surfing/ living in area, I never once experienced a surf day trip like this my own backyard. I recommend Epic Surf Tours for both local surfers and out of town surf travelers. There are many tours in San Diego and many beaches to surf on your own. But having an expert guide give lay of the land is such a memorable experience. Manny V. is an excellent surf guide and photographer. He is an expert at what he does, and you can feel secure knowing he's got all bases covered. You can relax , get your surf on, and build memories that will last a life time. Thanks Manny V!

Nalena K.

Epic Boat Trip

Manny is the man! A true professional that takes pride in his work. From the beginning of the morning 'till the end, Manny was efficient in his use of time, safety, and joy! He ensured safety was a high priority while also maximizing the stoke level and ensuring everyone had a great time! He knows all the great spots, and how to seek them out to ensure max wave count! You will not be disappointed with Manny at the helm.

Kyle Buckett

One More Wave

Epic Boat Trip

SAFE. FUN. EPIC.
The Coolest Thing You Can Do As A San Diego Native Or Visiting Wave Rider.

Recharge Your Surf Soul

This surf trip is an amazing experience. If you're in a slump or need a reboot, this is a good way to get you back into a surfing adventure mindset.

Captaining these trips reminds me of the first time I jumped off a boat in Indonesia back in 1996. I remember it as clear as day. Captain Tony Montana negotiated through the reef, then he pulled up his colorful catamaran-style ponga to the waves. I took a deep breath, smiled, and jumped off. It was pretty surreal to take a few paddle strokes straight into an empty line-up. It was very, very cool. Now, here's your opportunity to experience something just as memorable.

Like all Epic Surf Trips, it's always about Respecting The Locals, Keeping Safety As Priority #1 & Being Grateful To Ride These Magical Empty Waves.

NEW Summer Time Slots To Choose From
6:00am-10:30am || 10:45am-2:15pm || 11:00am-3:30pm || 3:45pm-8:15pm

Price: $405* Per Time Slot * (transaction fees will be applied at checkout and shown as 'taxes')
Maximum Surfers: 3
Duration: 4.5 Hours
Location: Spot X
Wave Riding Vehicle: All Types
Experience: Beginners/Novice (1-2 feet swell) - Intermediate/Pro (3 feet and above swell)
Booking: Scroll down to the bottom of this page. Choose how many people are in your group. Choose your date. Choose your time slot. Finally, click the Book Now button.
Please Note: Photos are not guaranteed on this trip.

MAKE IT EVEN MORE EPIC!

+ - SURF & LUNCH Click to collapse

+ $95 ($405 + $95 = $500 total)
*Choose your option below after selecting your date and time
(+90 Minutes To Trip) After your epic sunset surf session, we'll tie up to the dock at the restaurant of your choice. From Ketch's top deck view of the bay to Bali Hai's amazing view of San Diego's city skyline... It's all there for you to enjoy. Plenty of options to choose from. Your meal and drinks are not included. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with recommendations. Choose your option when you choose your date and time below.
Pizza Nova
Jimmy's Famous
Bali Hai
Joe's Crab Shack
Ketch Downtown
Village Pizzeria Bayside
Peohe's
Lil Piggy's Bar-B-Q
Spiro's Greek Cafe
Costa Azul
Il Fornaio

+ - SUNSET SURF & CONCERT Click to collapse

+ $150 ($405 + $150 = $555 total)
*Choose your option below after selecting your date and time
(+2 Hours To Trip) On select dates, you and your friends could get in a sunset surf and then take a hot shower on the boat before we set anchor near the Rady Shell open-air music venue. You are welcome to bring food and drinks. Sit back and relax as you all watch your concert of choice. Or for some, you can dance on the deck of the Epic surf boat. Have a look at the Rady Shell calendar and grab the Epic Boat before someone else does! Choose your date and option below.
May 20 - Yungblud: A Quiet Celebration
Jun 9 - Paul Simon
Jun 10 - Louis Tomlinson: How Did We Get Here? World Tour
Jun 27 - The Beach Boys with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra
Jun 28 - KOOL & THE GANG with special guest The Sugarhill Gang
Jul 3 - Blockbuster Broadway!
Jul 4 - America The Beautiful: 250
Jul 12 - Beethoven By The Bay
Jul 17 - Distant Worlds: music from FINAL FANTASY
Jul 18 - How To Train Your Dragon 2 in Concert
Jul 19 - Sam Barber – The American Route Tour
Sep 5 - Manteca! A Dizzy Gillespie & Chano Pozo Celebration
Sep 13 - Chris Tomlin – Worship Under The Stars
Sep 16 - "WEIRD AL" YANKOVIC: Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour
Sep 22 - Brandi Carlile: The Human Tour
https://www.theshell.org/performances/rady-shell-calendar/

+ - EXTRA HOUR OR HOLIDAY Click to collapse

+ $150 ($405 + $150 = $555 total)
*Choose your option after selecting your date and time. Limited Availability.
(+2 Hours To Trip) If you want more surf time or you are booking on a holiday, this is the option you'll include in your booking. If the selection is not chosen at the time of booking, Epic Surf Tours will contact you to inform you that an additional charge of $150 is mandatory for holidays.
4th of July
Labor Day - September 7
Veterans Day - November 11
Thanksgiving - November 26
Christmas - December 25
New Year's Eve - December 31

On your way out of San Diego Bay and towards the surf, I'll point out many of the amazing sights & facts about "America's Finest City." From the local Kumeyaay nation to the current military presence, San Diego Bay is full of noteworthy history.

You will be briefed on surfing etiquette, safety and respect. Respecting the surfers that have been going to these beautiful waves for decades is a priority.

*Epic Boat Trips need to be booked 13 hours before the departure date.

On the way out to the beautiful breaks, you will be briefed on the breaks and, more importantly, respect. Respecting the locals, the reefs, and Mother Nature is just shy of our priority… SAFETY. When the waves are pumping, we could expect a crowd out there. On the other hand, we could end up being the only ones in the lineup. Your best option for empty waves will be midweek.

Once you’re confirmed, you'll be sent an Epic Boat Trip info sheet with details on what to bring and what to expect. This trip is four and a half hours from beginning to end. No need for a suitcase. Simply show up ready to surf.

The price of the boat trip covers these essentials (while on La Mar - Epic Boat 01)

U.S. Coast Guard Certified Boat Captain
Certified CPR/First Aid Surf Guide/Instructor (Former California State Lifeguard)
Boat Trip To Secret Surf Locations
A Starbucks Sandwich, Water & Light Snacks

Quick Checklist (detailed 10-Point Checklist sent after booking)
-Dress Warm. Windbreaker Jacket, Gloves, And Beanie Suggested For The Boat Ride
-One Bag For Wetsuit, Booties, Surf Gear (Cinch Bag Is Perfect)
-One Small Bag For Personal Items (Waterproof Suggested)
-One Board (A Marbella Surfboard will be available for you to try)
-Show Up In Wetsuit Ready To Rock
-No Buckets Or Tubs
-No Bananas On The Boat (Eat Them Before Boarding)
-No Shoes That Leave Skid Markings

Find a couple of friends and book today!

NEW Summer Time Slots To Choose From
6:00am-10:30am || 10:45am-2:15pm || 11:00am-3:30pm || 3:45pm-8:15pm

Price: $405* Per Time Slot * (transaction fees will be applied at checkout and shown as 'taxes')
Maximum Surfers: 3
Duration: 4.5 Hours
Location: Spot X
Wave Riding Vehicle: All Types
Experience: Beginners/Novice (1-2 feet swell) - Intermediate/Pro (3 feet and above swell)
Booking: Scroll down to the bottom of this page. Choose how many people are in your group. Choose your date. Choose your time slot. Finally, click the Book Now button.
Please Note: Photos are not guaranteed on this trip.